Black, Blue and Female - Karen Greene shares her experiences and career as a Metropolitan Police Office

Diversity Matters

Life for black UK police officers in the 80s and 90s was a complex and challenging experience. They faced racism and discrimination from both their colleagues and the public, and they struggled to balance their identity and loyalty.

During this period we witnessed the rise of social movements and protests against police brutality and injustice, such as the Brixton riots, the Broadwater Farm riots, and the Stephen Lawrence case.

My guest on the show is Karen Greene, Karen grew up in Newham, East London by West Indian Parents. She worked for British Telecom for 8 yeas and had 2 children before deciding to join the metropolitan police force. She also had a desire to work for the police as she felt she could make a difference.

Having completed 2 years probation in uniform, Karen realised she wanted to become a detective having met a black female Detective who had inspired her and is still a very close friend today. She spent nearly 25 years as a detective in specialist roles including witness protection, counter terrorism, fraud and close protection. Her skills included surveillance, Firearms, advanced driving and a Exhibits Officer in Counter Terrorism.

So, what was life like for a black female police officer? Listen to the show